I’m three days late for this wrap-up, but happy March, friends!
Thankfully, February went by way quicker than January, maybe because days got longer, a little warmer and my overall mood had been a little better, too. I’m not a winter person and I’m just happy spring is right around the corner… hopefully.
Not much worth telling has happened this past February. I took a couple needed days off work and went away a little bit, which was both well-needed and refreshing, too, but as always way too short. Otherwise, it’s been the usual working-blogging-reading-routine and not much else to tell.
I’m excited for March to be here, as I have an exciting weekend away coming with my sister and hopefully, exciting books and blogging things, too.
I feel like 2019 is a good, well strike that, kind of awesome reading year so far. I keep on flying through books and finding new gems and this makes me so, SO happy. Let’s take a look at what I’ve read!
? Books I read
If I loved the deaf rep and diversity of this lovely contemporary, I didn’t fall in love with the main character. Still an entertaining read overall, though.
Lauren James always, always surprises me with her books and that one was no exception. Original, unique and thrilling to read.
Exactly the kind of soft and sweet, yet deep and sometimes emotional, too, contemporary I love. Definitely a book to look out for!!
I was curious to read Tahereh Mafi’s work in the contemporary genre and I wasn’t disappointed. Poignant, important and really, really good.
I had such a fun time reading this book! Adorable romance, family vibes and FRIENDSHIPS, Emma Mills is the queen of great friendships.
My second Jenn Bennett book didn’t disappoint, I loved the characters, the romance, the emotions, everything. Such a good book.
Am I still screaming about reading this? YES. It unfortunately didn’t end up being a 5-stars read, but still a solid 4 with great characters, a great concept and endearing read overall.
All of these reviews are pending… aerm. Can you tell I’m so procrastinating on reviews? Someone help.
- Goodreads Challenge: 13/60 books : on track! (and kind of on ? ? ???)
- Year of The Asian Reading Challenge: 2/10 books: on track!
I’m still very determined to finish my current WIP soon and… I think I just might this March, hopefully. I don’t have much more to go through, but wrapping things up in stories aren’t my forte at all, so… well it takes me even more time than usual to get through just 200 words. Let’s hope I can do this.
I just might overcome my fear of sharing my work and seek out some beta readers once I’m done. Opened to people shouting at me, in case you’d be interested… it’s a YA contemporary/mystery with childhood friends, boarding schools, academic pressure, hopefully squad goals, muffins and heartbreak. You know, the usual and if you’re curious, you can scroll down my writing category on the blog!
Also, you know what, why not. Here’s a small snippet I hope is not too bad.
“Her hair cascaded around her shoulder in a mess, on her wrist she always had that infinity symbol, that anchor. Their names. His home.”
I’m kind of proud, for once, that I managed to take time to write a little more this month, yay!! Fingers crossed this continues this March.
- Words written: 5118.
It’s been a pretty good blogging year so far, just as well and… I’ve been excited about some projects, too that I’m keeping on the down low for now.
I’ve been a little burned out, at times, but keeping things slow and having my sister remind me that it’s okay to take my time for some things, too, really helped. I wrote about book blogging positivity this month, actually, because I kind of needed it, too! By the way, friends, I always love writing about blogging topics, so if there is anything you’d like me to talk about, feel free to let me know!
? Book reviews
Click on the book covers to be redirected to my reviews.
? Book blogging
? Book discussions
? Book Tags & Awards
? Author Features
I’m still going on with my author features for the next month and I’m very excited to have so many great authors planned out for you, I hope you’ll love the posts as much as I do! Other than that, still on the usual schedule, maybe some upcoming changes and, hopefully, some more I-should-really-relax mood from my part, too. (Or maybe not. Ha.Ha. Someone help me relax).
Once again, I have A LOT of blog posts to share this month and I hope you’ll love them all as much as I did!
? Books & Reading
- Malka @ Paper Procrastinators wrote a blog post about reading popular books and why it’s okay not to.
- Margaret @ Weird Zeal announced her Women’s History Month Reading Challenge !
- Rita @ Bookish Rita wrote an amazing discussion : I like big books and I cannot lie ☕️ // an ode to thick novels
- Vicky @ Vicky Who Reads did it again with The Ultimate YA Romance Reading Recommendation List: 80+ Romances to Fall In Love With This Valentine’s Day! . She also shared other recommendations: 18 Underrated Books by Black Authors for Black History Month!
- Nimika @ Word Haven gives us some amazing Hate to Love Trope Recommendations // come for the angst and leave w tears – wordhaven
- Shealea @ Shut Up Shealea shared 21 Sapphic romances that’ll make your heart soft on Valentine’s Day
- Nicole @ Feed Your Fiction addiction shared her Bookworm Confession: Swag Isn’t My Thing. Let’s Discuss. (Plus a Giveaway)
- Malka & Chana are back at it with another interesting debate: Should You Read the Synopsis?
- Mattie @ Living Mattie Books asks us: What Are Your Reading Preferences? (ft. Polls)
- Swetlana @ The Caffeinated Bookworm Life shared 8 Things Readers Feel Guilty About
? Book Blogging
- My amazing friend Taasia celebrated her one hear blogiversary, check out her amazing post and congratulate her: IT’S MY ONE YEAR BLOGIVERSARY!! // Chatting about Blogging, Looking back on the Past Year, Brooklyn Nine-Nine Memes, Shoutouts + Thank YOU
- The Ever-Amazing Kat @ Novels & Waffles talked about designs and branding all month long, here are some of the amazing posts she shared!!
- By Any Other Name // 5 Steps That Will Help You Choose An Awesome Blog Name (ft. A Free Worksheet!)
- How in the World I Make My Graphics // A Step-By-Step Tutorial – Novels and Waffles
- My Branding Journey + Four Questions To Ask Yourself While Rebranding // ft. A Free Downloadable Checklist – Novels and Waffles
- I Font It That Way // How to Choose the Right Font for Your Blog – Novels and Waffles
- Fadwa @ Word Woonders shared her Bookstagramming process + Helpful tips and tricks
- Abby @ When Words Fly shared 5 PRICELESS SKILLS i’ve learned thru blogging // why blogging is worth the effort in the long run !!
?Writing
- Elizabeth @ Redgal Musings shared some writing tips: Writing Fierce Females / Some Dos and Don’ts about Creating Strong Female Characters | RedGal Musings
- Lais @ Bookish Skies talked about outlining characters vs. outlining plots
Is there a blog post you are particularily proud of this month? Feel free to send it along with your comment!
How was February for you? Did you have a nice month overall? Are you also waiting for spring… or for winter, for those of you in the Southern Hemisphere?
What were your latest favorite books this month? Tell me everything in comments!
tempestofbooks says
Sounds like you had a good month Marie, reading and otherwise, I’m happy for you ?
I own A very large expanse of sea and I want to get to it this year, but contemporary is not my favourite genre so I really have to be in the mood for it! Hopefully it’ll be soon though ? I can also relate on the WIP section, I think about mine all the time but so far? I’ve only written the prologue … Oops?
Have a beautiful March and I can’t wait to see what you have in store for your blog!
Marie says
Oh thank you so much, you’re so sweet <3
I hope you will find your contemporary mood and that you will give A Very Large Expanse of Sea a try, I really enjoyed it, it was such a good and important read <3
I didn't know you wrote, this is SO GREAT! I hope you'll get to write a little more, but brainstorming and thinking about it is a huge part of it all, too 🙂 Maybe participating in camp NaNoWriMo this April could help you get some writing done? 🙂
Thank you so much! I hope you will have a wonderful March 🙂
wordandsentence says
YAY MARIE YOU CAN BE PROUD OF YOU ! Like Always your posts are sooo interesting and Always very unique 😉
I really can’t wait for spring to come, winter is starting really draining my creativity & Energy haha
A very large expanse of sea seems to be an amazing book ! and the fact that it deals with important things makes me want to read it so bad !
Anyways, I hope you’re having a lovely day and you’re feeling happy <3
Marie says
Aw thank you so, so much, your comments always make me so happy. <3 Same here, winter is just the worst season ever for my mental health overall. here's to hoping spring will come around soon 🙂
I hope you'll get to read A Very Large Expanse of Sea, I loved it so much! 🙂
Have a wonderful March! <3
Aj @ Read All The Things! says
I’m glad you had a good reading and blogging month. I’m excited for spring, but it snows here until May, so I’ll be waiting a while. Good luck with finishing your WIP!
Marie says
Oh wow, until MAY? I couldn’t handle that haha, I’m sending you all the warmth (that I will get soon, hopefully)! <3
Thank you so much! <3 <3
Jules_Writes says
Thank you for sharing all the links I will make sure I check some of them out.
And good luck with the writing 😀
Marie says
Oh you’re so welcome, I hope you’ll enjoy these posts 🙂
Thank you so much! Have a fantastic month! 🙂
Ilsa @ A Whisper Of Ink says
I’m so glad you liked A Very Large Expanse of Sea – I thought it was very relevant and heart-warming! Though I wish it hadn’t focused on the romance as much as it did. I’m genuinely having a good reading year so far. The only book i didn’t like that much this month was The Surface Breaks by Louise O’ Neill – it was just so much about feminism it forgot to be a good story?! frustrating to say the least. but it has SUCh a pretty cover! And excuse me, please may I just shakily raise my hand to be maybe be considered as a beta reader? Your WIP sounds amazing and I’d love to read it. Hope you have an awesome March! <3
Marie says
I really, really enjoyed it, it was heartwarming and heartbreaking at times, too <3
Oh I'm so sorry you didn't love The Surface Breaks! I LOVE this cover so much ahha and I thought it would be such a good read, sorry to hear it was disappointing.
And yes yes please do feel free to raise your hand, you're too sweet, I am so, so happy you like the sound of my WIP and I'll definitely keep you in mind when I'm done with this draft and looking for beta readers, thank you!! <3 <3
I hope you will have a lovely March, too! <3
Caro @ bookcheshirecat says
I admit I’m more of a winter person, but spring is nice too with the first rays of sunshine & flowers ? I‘m glad to hear that you had such a great reading month!
You can totally finish your story!! *cheers you on* ? And … I would totally be interested in being a beta reader, because your story sounds so good ?
Reminder to take care of yourself ❤️ I feel you about quickly getting burned out, so it’s time for some self care for both of us ? Glad you have your sister’s support! ?
Marie says
Oh thank you so, so much Caro, this means a lot! <3 <3 and I'm not there yet but I'll definitely keep you in mind when I'm looking for beta readers 😀
Thank you for the reminder, I need it <3
Shaa says
I’m glad you’re on track! I feel like this year is such an awesome reading year too! I read more than I usually do haha. Anyway, I can’t help but get excited to see that you’ve read A Very Large Expanse of Sea! I’m going to read it this month as I’m aiming to read more books from Muslim authors ?
I hope everything goes well with your writing progress! It can be exciting but tiring too so take your time on it?And omg I love that snippet ?
Marie says
Ohh I hope you’ll enjoy A Very Large Expanse of Sea, I’ll be looking forward to your thoughts and your review! I thought it was such a good book, intense to read at times, but worth it <3
Thank you so much, this makes me so, so happy <3 <3
Beware Of The Reader says
I am happy your sister reminded you that it’s ok to step back sometime Marie! I had to this month as I had a huge and heavy month at work. Based on what you published above I’d say your month was pretty great! A Very large Expanse of Sea was also a winner in my book! Headed now to read your favorite authors as I think I missed your post!
Marie says
I always need these little reminders haha 🙂
I’m so glad you enjoyed A Very Large Expanse of Sea as well, this was such a good book! <3
Thank you so much, Sophie, I hope you will have a great March <3
meandinkblog says
In the UK it has been cold (but I have always liked the cold ?) but we had a few summery days as well ?
Sounds like you had some good reads this month and I like the deaf rep– I haven’t seen that in many books!! I know about procransinating reveiws– I have one from January I’ve yet to post ?
Well done on writing 5000+ words that’s awesome!! It’s nice when you find time to write and I love the little extract!! Best of luck with finishing it!!
With blogging I definitely think it is important to take time and don’t put too pressure on yourself!! ?
I read 5 books this month which I was surprised at because that is quite high for me– my favourite reads were king of scars and the Foxhole Court ?
I have you have a great March!! ?
Marie says
Aw well it’s good that you like the cold, I’m just not a fan at all, I’m waiting for warmth and I’m sick of all the sweaters ?
OH January, you’re not doing so bad, there are too many books I thought I’d review from last year that I didn’t ??
Thank you so much for the sweet words and support, this means so much! <3
I'm so happy you managed to read 5 books, this is AWESOME! I've heard so many good things about The Foxhole Court, I'm glad you enjoyed it 🙂
I hope your March will be amazing! Thank you so much for your sweet comment <3
meandinkblog says
I can definitely see why you love the warm weather especially when its been cold for so long!!
Haha oh right— I only just started reviewing books so that might be me soon!!
You’re welcome– I love your posts!!
I know I surprised myself with that actually!! Yeah it was really good!!
Thank you so much!!
Marie says
Aww, you’re too sweet, thank you so much <3 I hope March is treating you well so far! <3
Fadwa @ Word Wonders says
Sounds like you have an awesome month both reading and blogging wise! You’ve read sooo many books I’m anticipating ? i hope March treats you even better!
And thank you for shouting out my post! ❤
Marie says
Thank you so much, I hope your March will be amazing just as well! <3 <3
Erica Mae says
You’ve got pretty awesome posts last February, Marie! I loved your blogging-related posts. Congrats on your WIP progress! Wishing you all the best for your projects. Also, you don’t have to push yourself if you’re not into writing reviews yet as of now. Take all the time you need and I’ll be watching out for your reviews! They all seem like a pretty great read and I can’t wait to hear what you think of them 🙂 Wishing you an even better March! 🙂
Marie says
Oh thank you so much Erica, you’re so sweet, thank you!! <3 <3
I hope you will have a wonderful March just as well <3
Olivia @ Purely Olivia says
I’m glad you had a good February! <3 I'm so happy you enjoyed Foolish Hearts, it's one of my favorites. (Gideon!!) I also saw you didn't love the main character of You're Welcome, Universe, and thought that was interesting because I'm actually kind of DNFing that book right now. I'm so sad because I thought it seemed really great but I just can't seem to connect!
YOUR WIP SOUNDS AMAZING. I literally adore everything you mention about it, and your snippet! Marieeee!
I'm sorry I missed so many of your blog posts this month, I hardly ever looked at WordPress, but I hope to remedy that in March. I hope you have a wonderful month! 🙂
Marie says
Oh Foolish Hearts is my favorite Emma Mills so far, just as well, it was such a great read and Gideon, ahhh I love him <3
I'm so happy to hear I'm not alone – it made me so sad, this book had a lot of potential, but I unfortunately didn't fall in love with it :/
Aww thank you, Olivia, you're so sweet, I hope that you will have a wonderful month <3
Margaret @ Weird Zeal says
Looks like you read some great books in February! 😀 I’m really interested in The Quiet at the End of the World, so I’m glad to hear that you enjoyed it. And good luck with the writing! Thanks so much for linking to my post <3
Marie says
The Quiet At The End of The World was such a good book, Lauren James deserves more praise for sure. I hope you’ll check it out 😀
Thank you so much, Margaret, I hope you will have an incredible month <3
thebookishskies says
Thanks for the shoutout, Marie!
First of all – I AM SO EXCITED THAT YOU GOT THE CHANCE TO READ THE OPPOSITE OF ALWAYS(!(#)!)!! I really can’t wait to hear all your thoughts on it. It sounds like a phenomenal book. Even though, knowing me, I’ll only be able to pick it up a year from now, I’m still anticipating it a lot, hahah.
I am glad that the weather has been warming up around there. It’s been getting cooler here too, and these past two days have been gloomy and rainy and I couldn’t be happier, hahah.
(Also, as I write this, I’m listening to the new song by Jonas Brothers. Did you hear the news about their reunion? I’m so excited and I really loved their new track – it’s so much fun! The music video is also the cutest; it’s funny seeing them with their wives and fiancés. My 11 year old self would’ve never imagined we’d be here, lol).
I am looking forward to reading more of your author features. I read the interview with Laura Silverman and I really liked it. As she mentioned herself, we hardly ever read about the academic pressure put on teenagers, and it’s an important theme to be highlighted. I studied in a private school that was mostly focused in college entrance exams, and I saw a lot of classmates getting burn out and spiraling down mentally due to the pressure. I’m really glad that we have more people talking about these issues.
And to finalize this essay of a comment, I just want to say I’d love to read more about your WIP if you ever feel like sharing more snippets. Boarding schools and muffins are my aesthetic, truly.
Wishing you an amazing March! And, once again, thanks for mentioning my post! ?
Marie says
You’re so welcome! <3
I really loved Opposite of Always, such a good book and a great concept, too, I hope you'll love it when you can read it! <3
AHH AHH AHHH yes, yes, I've been feeling like I'm back ten years ago or something with their new song, I kind of can't believe it's happening haha, but I ALSO LOVE IT VERY VERY MUCH. They've grown so much and I can't wait to see what they will do next and I should stop here otherwise I will rant on and on about them. I feel like I'm back ten years ago, really hahaha. <3
I so agree with you, it's so important to talk about academic pressure a little more, as it's just happening to so many teenagers around the world and deserves to be something that is aknowledged a bit more <3
Oh thank you!! I'm so happy you'd like to read more about my WIP, thank you, this means a lot!! Hopefully I'll share a bit more and will be able to finish this draft <3
I hope you'll have a wonderful month <3
Angela says
I had a great reading month, but I will also be glad when spring is here! We barely had any snow this winter, and now only three days into March we’ve had 2 days of snow!
Marie says
Oh no, March isn’t the time for snow anymoreeeeeee, it’s time for spring to come! I hope it won’t last too long! <3
Sending you warmth and love for March, Angela <3
Shanti says
aaah it has been a month! also I am only getting emailed some of your blog posts? I haven’t seen a bunch of these and I was so confused! anyway, in February I worked a teeny bit on my WIP but was mostly distracted by getting back to New Zealand and moving into my new place, which I really like, and trying to make the most of my last month of holiday. I also had a bit of work to do (how do you work and blog, Marie? you’re amazing!). I’ve put my bookshelves up though and they’re giving me a lot of joy–and university starts tomorrow!
Marie says
Ooohh this is strange, maybe something happened with wordpress? :/
Ohh, I hope that the moving in went well, and last month of holiday, I hope you’ll enjoy it! <3 <3
To be honest with you… I don't know?? I'm just obsessed and, I don't know?? haha.
Thank you so, so much Shanti, you're so sweet, I hope you'll have an incredible March and enjoy your holidays! <3 <3
Julianna @ Paper Blots says
a. MARIE I AM SO PROUD THAT YOU’RE FLYING THROUGH BOOKS THIS YEAR I BELIEVE IN YOU!! amazing
b. omg okay when you look for beta readers p/L/E/A/S/E hit me up I TOTALLY want to read your novel about academic pressure!!! muffins?? heartbreak?? yes! (Also, side note: is there romance in the novel? I’m just curious lol)
c. so many people have seriously loved Opposite of Always and I really want to read it!! the cover is so pretty and I love the yellow!
Marie says
Ahh thank you so much you’re too sweet <3 <3 <3
If I manage to finish this draft someday haha I'll keep you in mind for sure, you're so sweet, I hope you won't be disappointed <3 And… there are hints and feelings here and there but there is NO romance happening in the book. (I know. who am I. Next thing I write will be 300% marshmallow-y romance haha).
Thank youu!! <3
christine @ lady gets lit says
OMG MARIE please pick me to be your beta!!! I would be so honored! I already know I will love anything you write but I promise to also be 100% honest in my thoughts.
I get what you mean about struggling when you get to the end of a project too. For me, the first two thirds of the book are so easy to write, but tying up all the loose ends stresses me out to no end! I always feel like I’m babbling just because I never want to leave my imaginary readers hanging. I hope you find the time and headspace to get through the last bit of your story because finishing something feels so damn good! Hope you have a wonderful March!
Marie says
CHRISTINE ahh, you’re too sweet ????
I’ll definitely keep you in mind if I can finally finish this draft, hopefully I will this month, fingers crossed <3
I feel exactly the same way, I find it SO frustrating and complicated to finish a story and… I always feel like I'm rushing it, but I don't know haha. I hope it will be okay haha 🙂
Thank you so much <3 <3
christine @ lady gets lit says
Ugh, same, I feel like I rush the ending because I just wa ynt to be done and have a completed draft (even though once I finish it I pretty much want to set it on fire).
Best of luck with your writing! You got this!
Marie says
Thank you so much!! <3 <3
Norrie says
ooh, yay for March! Where are you guys going?
My next holiday is only in April so I’m just surviving ?
Marie says
We’re just going to disneyland paris for a weekend 🙂
ahah, my next real long weekend is in April, too, I can’t WAIT. Here’s to surviving haha, we can do this! <3 <3
Thank you for your comment! I hope March is treating you well so far <3
Norrie says
Oh, how cool! Have fun <3 🙂
Marie says
thank you so much!! <3
Laurel @ The Inky Saga says
You have the best blogosphere reading list in the game! I look forward to checking out these posts when I get some time this week ^_^ Congrats on all that you’re working on right now! It sounds like a lot and it’s truly admirable. Listen to your sister, though, and take some breaks 😉
Marie says
Awww, thank you, oh this means so much, I hope you’ll find great post and great bloggers you enjoy there 😀
Thank you so much! Ahah, I know I need to the reminder 🙂 thank you <3
Bookish Rita says
Awww I’m so proud of you for working so much on your WIP! Although YA isn’t the genre I read the most now, contemporary novels are what keep me alive. I would so love to be a beta reader for you, I’d be honored! I read A Very Large Expanse of Sea a few months ago and really liked it. It was interesting to see her move away from her Shatter Me novels and see how her writing was different, too! I hope Spring finally gets there very soon and that you have an even better March ?
Marie says
Oh thank you Rita, you’re so sweet! <3 I'll keep you in mind for sure when I finish this draft! 🙂
I agree, it was so interesting to see how her writing style changed from the Shatter Me series, I really enjoyed it 🙂
I hope you will have a wonderful March just as well <3
may says
YOU’RE ALMOST FINISHED YOUR WIP!!! that’s so amazing. (that snippet though?? incredible, never stop writing, we need more!!) i feel you on not knowing how to end it, thats my MAIN problem with writing, how do you end a book satisfyingly??? ??
you’ve had such a great reading month, there are so many books that i’m so excited for on that list (SERIOUS MOONLIGHT!!!! – i’m so glad you loved it bc im dyinnggg for it to be released and you’re making me more excited) i’ve been meaning to read ‘you’re welcome universe’ for the longest time too, so glad you enjoyed it
i hope march is kind to you and you have a fantastic month <3
Marie says
may ahhhh you really want to make me cry, you’re making me all emotional, thank you ????
I know, right? I just never feel like I can find a satisfying ending, somehow, that terrifies me the most while writing haha.
I can’t wait for you to read Serious Moonlight, all the fluff and adorableness and ughhhh I loved it so much <3
Thank you so much, I hope that you will have an incredible month <3
Kelly W says
Foolish Hearts is my favourite Emma Mills book that I’ve picked up so far, I’m thrilled to hear you enjoyed it! Also you’ve shared so many fantastic sounding links (again) so I guess that’s what I’ll be doing with my evening. I’m glad you were able to take a little time to rest in February (it’s a tiring month, for all it’s shorter than the others…)
Marie says
I hope you’ll find blog posts you love in there! 🙂
Thank you so, so much for your sweet comment, Kelly! I hope March will be great for you <3
Camilla @ Reader in the Attic says
Aww, congrats for your Wip 🙂
And seems like February is not such an amazing month? I ended up being sucked away by exams >.>
Waiting for spring here but seems to be already here. I’ll pretend that is normal because Rome is usually much more colder during this first days.
Oh, I’ll check out the writing blog you listed down. I thought that I was already following one but for some reasons seems like it wasn’t the case. *side eye wordpress readers function*
Marie says
Oh yay for spring being already there for you! I hope it’ll come here soon too haha 🙂
I don’t have a writing blog, I do have a writing section on my blog, but it’s only… well, poorly kept updated for now with blog posts haha 🙂 https://drizzleandhurricanebooks.com/category/writing-2/
Thank you, Camilla! I hope you will have a lovely month <3
Beth (Reading Every Night) says
I’m definitely not a winter person either Marie, so I’m thrilled Spring is around the corner too! 🙂 Also I have no clue where February went either (seriously, where?)!
You seem like you had a great blogging month; I’m really loving your new author feature. I still need to check out your post with Laura Silverman but I’m excited to see which authors you have on the works for March. I need to read Lauren James’s new book, she always surprises me with her books so I can’t wait to get started, and I’m glad you enjoyed Foolish Hearts too. I have all of Emma Mills’s books on my TBR list and I’ve heard nothing but great things.
Great recap, it really seems like things are going well with your WIP. You definitely wrote more last month than I did! 😀
Great post, and I hope you’re having a brilliant March too. 🙂 ❤️
Marie says
Ohhh, I’m so happy you like my new feature, Beth, thank you so much, this means a lot <3 <3
I can't wait to hear what you think of Lauren James' latest book, she is so good with twists and turns and I love that about her stories 🙂
I hope you will have a wonderful March as well <3
Beth (Reading Every Night) says
Well if the book itself (and the twist let’s be honest) is anything like The Loneliest Girl in the Universe I know I’m going to love it.
Thanks so much. 🙂 <3
Aurora Librialis says
I’m glad February was a better month for you ? I live in Norway and I love our dramatic seasons, but I’m very glad the days are getting longer too. I miss the sunshine!
A Very Large Expanse of Sea’s one of the best books I’ve read so far this year, so I’m really happy you love it too ❤️ You’d Be Mine and Serious Moonlight both sound like really lovely reads, I’ll add them to my TBR!
I hope you have a wonderful March and good luck with finishing your WIP ?
Marie says
Ahhhh you live in Norway, how did I not know that? This is amazing, this country is on my bucket list, I’d love to visit someday, it seems SO beautiful <3 though I'm not a fan of the cold at all haha, I'd visit in the summer 😛
I'm so glad you liked A Very Large Expanse of Sea, it's such a good book <3
I hope you will have a wonderful March! <3 <3
Aurora Librialis says
That’s so cool! You definitley don’t want to come in the winter then cause it’s cold and full of snow, haha! It is very beautiful though ?
Thank you ❤️
Marie says
I’m sure it has to be stunning under the snow, too <3 but… I'll visit in the summer first, haha 🙂 <3
Raven @ Dreamy Addictions says
You had a good month! I’m so glad you loved Serious Moonlight, and The Opposite of Always. They’re both on my TBR list. Hope you have a Wonderful March and Happy reading! 🙂
Marie says
Ahhh I hope you’ll love both books when you can read them 🙂
Thank you so much, Raven, have a wonderful month <3
Rachael @ This Westgate says
Sounds like you’ve had a super productive month so far! Exciting news about your WIP – I’m always up for a little beta reading if you’re ever in the mood for some input!
Marie says
Thank you so much, Rachael!! 🙂 I’ll keep you in mind for sure!
I hope you’ll have a lovely month 🙂
thebookishlibra says
Sounds like you had a fantastic February! I hope that March will be a great month for you too and I’m right there with you on being ready for spring and longer days.
Marie says
Thank you so much! Let’s hope that spring will be here soon 🙂 x
CG @ Paper Fury says
I’m waiting for Winter! And kind of keen for it. ? Summer was wickedly hot (I’m in Australia) and ugh I never sleep in summers so I’m looking forward to some cosy autumn feels haha. And yay for so many good reads! I’m really excited for Opposite of Always so I’m glad you loved it! (I agree about You’re Welcome Universe unfortunately.) And I’m loving your author features. It’s always really fun to get some behind-the-scenes info on authors’ processes. ?
Marie says
Oh I get that, if I love spring and summer, when it’s WAY too hot, it’s terrible ??
Thank you so, so much! I’m so happy you like my author features, this makes me so happy <3
I hope March will be amazing for you! <3
Lauren Becker says
I’m glad you had a pretty good month. Great job with your writing. I need to get back into my WIP. I keep saying it; I just need to find the time/motivation. I get caught up in reading or blogging more often than not. LOL
-Lauren
http://www.shootingstarsmag.net
Marie says
Thank you so much, Lauren!
Oh I get that, I often get caught up in reading and blogging, too. It somehow takes more energy to get back to writing than these other things, but… once you manage to, it feels so rewarding. I hope you’ll be able to write a bit soon, I’m rooting for you! <3
Kyra says
England had two amazing days last week – it was almost 20 degrees Celsius! It made me SO happy to have warmer weather. I can’t wait for proper Spring to arrive! *_*
Good luck with your writing! I’m terrible at wrapping things up too…I just go on and on and on haha! I’m planning on completing my plot outline this month and then participating in Camp NaNo next month. I just hope I can get the plot outline finished in time!
I hope you have an amazing March. 🙂 x
Marie says
Ahhh that’s amazing, so lucky, I hope your warm weather is headed my way, too ?
Ohh this is exciting, best of luck for your plotting, YOU CAN DO THIS! <3
I hope your March will be amazing as well! <3
Malka @ Paper Procrastinators says
I’m so excited for Serious Moonlight! I’m so glad you enjoyed it!
I read A Very Large Expanse of Sea in practically one sitting I was that engrossed and captivated. And Foolish Hearts is the only Emma Mills book I haven’t read, and it keeps enticing me with that beautiful cover!
I’m SO excited for spring! I can’t wait for sunshine and warmth and daylight! The snow on the ground is taunting me. Although I did get a snow day from it, so I can’t complain too much.
Thank you so much for sharing 2 of our posts! I always enjoy reading the posts that you link up from other bloggers, so seeing my name on this list always feels weird.
I hope you have a wonderful March!
Marie says
I hope you’ll read Serious Moonlight and Foolish Hearts and will love both, Malka, they both were SO good, exactly the kind of contemporaries I love 🙂
OH I’m so grateful we don’t have snow here anymore, but… I just need it to be spring now haha, I miss it too badlyyy 🙂
You’re so welcome, you wrote brilliant posts as always and I’m so happy to spread the words about them <3 <3
I hope you'll have a wonderful March as well, thank you so much! <3
The Candid Cover says
I really enjoy great contemporaries as well. I have You’d Be Mine coming up on my TBR, so I am glad to hear that you enjoyed it. I hope that spring comes for you soon! 🙂
Marie says
Ahh yay, I can’t wait for you to read You’d Be Mine, I hope you’ll love it, I really did 😀
Thank you so much! <3
flippingthruthepages says
Yay, for having spring 😀 We already have summer here and the heat is so much 🙁 I am glad your reading is going so good this year. It always feels so good to find great reads one after the other.
I want to read almost all the books that you have read 😀 I can’t wait to start The Fever King.
I really hope you get some relaxing time though 🙂 Have a lovely March!
Marie says
Ahhh, Sim, I am SO EXCITED for you to start The Fever King, I hope you’ll love it just as much as I did 🙂
Thank you so much! I hope March has been good and relaxing to you so far <3
ashley @ socially awkward bookworm says
Looks like you read so many great books in February! I really need to read Serious Moonlight. I love Jenn Bennett’s books! Good luck with your writing! Hopefully you get even more done this month. I can’t wait to read You Asked For Perfect! I just bought the book a couple days ago and I may put all my other books on hold to read it ASAP. 😛 <3
Marie says
Ahhh, I can’t wait for you to read Serious Moonlight, Ashley, it was such a fantastic read <3
YES YES, please put everything on hold to read You Asked For Perfect, it is such a great read. I hope you'll love it 😀
Thank you so much, I hope you're having an amazing month <3
Lindsi says
I DNFd A Very Large Expanse of Sea a little over halfway through. I was getting really aggravated with Shirin and how she was treating Ocean. He was nothing but kind and understanding from the beginning, and she hurt him over and over again. I know she was worried about how other people would treat him, and how she thought that would impact their relationship, but she didn’t give him a chance to try. She would string him along for a little bit, and then slam the door in his face. I thought the rest of the story was really great, and sends a good message about tolerance and understanding, but her treatment of others really rubbed me the wrong way.
I’m super excited about Bennett’s Serious Moonlight! I love her writing, and I’m looking forward to getting my hands on this one. I have Opposite of Always, but haven’t read it yet! I’ve only seen good reviews though.
Happy reading!
Lindsi @ Do You Dog-ear? ?
Marie says
Oh I’m sorry you didn’t love it, I can understand your frustration about it.
I can’t wait for you to read Serious Moonlight! It was such a great read, I really love Jenn Bennett’s books so far <3 And Opposite of Always was such a sweet read, too, I hope you'll love it 🙂
Thank you so much, happy reading to you too!
Meggy | Chocolate'n'Waffles says
I’m sorry but… OLAAAAAAAAAAF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Marie says
Ahahh I couldn’t resist, LOVE HIM 😀
Meggy | Chocolate'n'Waffles says
Now I want to watch the movie again!! XD
Marie says
Ahahh I get that, me too haha 😀
Meggy | Chocolate'n'Waffles says
Let it go, let it gooooo, I’m one with the wind and storm ?❤️
Taasia @ Librae Paints Pages says
marie, this post was so great to read! i’ve been woefully behind on interacting and so i need to read all your recent posts ASAP because i’m the worst at commenting haha
i’m so happy you enjoyed foolish hearts, i loved it a whole lot! i really need to read avleos soon, because it sounds so good and important and needed + i love contemporaries!! also your author features look so great (NEED to read you asked for perfect soonnnn, you’re really giving out all the best recs!!)
sending you all the happy and great vibes in march, and i hope you feel a lot less burned out! remember YOU come first! <3
and finally, thank you for linking my post! i hope you enjoyed it and i can't wait for my next blogiversary. really want to check out all the other posts here soonnn!!
wishing you all the best in march, happy reading!
Marie says
Oh Taasia you’re too sweet thank you! <3 There's no need to catch up, we all get busy <3 you're too sweet!
I hope you'll read avleos soon, it was such a good book, I really enjoyed it 🙂 and YOU ASKED FOR PERFECT AHHH PLEASE READ IT. This book was so good and relatable and I loved it. ?
Thank you for the reminder, I think I need a reminder like that every day haha, thank you <3 I hope you're having a wonderful month so far <3
Melina Elisa says
I completely relate to February going by quickly! Like you said, I love the snow, but not the cold weather all the time? I’m so excited for spring! I’ve added so many books to my good reads list cause of you today! I’ve been keeping up with it so well, since I started actively using it! I’ve been reading more books too. Great post Marie! Happy March 🙂 xx
Melina | http://www.melinaelisa.com
Marie says
Ahhh this makes me so, so, so happy, Melina, I hope you’re finding books you love there! <3
Have a wonderful March! <3
Cailin @ Rose Petal Pages says
February wasn’t a good month for me in terms of reading or blogging, but March is my blogiversary month so I’m determined to be better haha. I listened to the audiobook of A Very Large Expanse of Sea and enjoyed it as well–did you see that it’s being made into a movie? I’m so excited that the story is going to be represented in such a huge way soon!
Marie says
Oh no I’m so sorry to hear that! I hope that this month has been and will be better! <3 and happy blogiversary!!
I found out about it being adapted into a movie, yay, this is SO exciting, I can't wait! 😀
Thank you so much for your sweet comment <3
Olivia-Savannah says
I’m not a winter person either so I am also very happy that spring is finally on its way. And I need to read Serious Moonlight. I wasn’t the biggest fan of Shatter Me but Mafi’s latest novel sounds quite different and important so I will give it a try!
Marie says
Ahh yes, Mafi’s book was such a good and important one, I hope you will give it a try and love it ❤️ thank you for your comment!
Sophie Li says
Hey Marie!!!
So glad to hear that 2019 has been a great reading year for you so far!! It’s been good for me as well. There has been a few books this year that I really ended up enjoying 🙂
It sounds like you are almost done your novel which is super duper AWESOME. I love the snippet and I can’t wait to read more 😀 😀 By the way, I wanted to ask if you were going to do Camp Nanowrimo this year in April? (Or will your novel already be done by then?!)
Cheers <3 🙂
Marie says
Thank you so much, Sophie, your support means so much <3
I'm not going to do Camp NaNo, well I don't think so, as I haven't quite finished my WIP and I'm not sure if I will be on April 1st. I definitely want to work on another story though, but.. I guess I'll see when 🙂 Are you participating? 🙂
Sophie Li says
You can continue to work on your current WIP during camp Nanowrimo (you don’t have to start a new project!) also you can set your own word count or time goal. For example 10K words or 30min/day of writing. Not sure if this would change your mind 🙂
Yes I will be participating this year haha 🙂 hoping to start editing Children of the sun!
Marie says
Yeah I know that, but I think that I might be finished in early April (hoping so!!) so….. the rest of the Camp NaNo month wouldn’t really happen as I would be done already haha 🙂
I’ll be rooting for you!! 😀 <3
Sophie Li says
Oh wow I didn’t realize how soon you were going to finish! Congrats!!!! Looking forward to hearing more about it 🙂 in that case no worries about Camp Nano!
Marie says
Well nothing’s done, but fingers crossed I can finish it haha 🙂 <3
Sophie Li says
Of course you can! Looking forward to hearing updates 😀
Marie says
Thank you!! <3 You're the best, thank you for all of your support, it means so much <3